The Story
Plant Bio
Lycoris radiata is a perennial bulb known for its striking flowers that emerge from the ground seemingly barren, creating a dramatic effect.
This cultivar is distinguished by its unique, soft buttery-yellow flowers that appear on naked stems in late summer.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
16 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, China, Korea
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil and promote root growth.
- Mist cuttings or division material in spring for new plants.
- Place in partial sun for optimal flowering; avoid full shade.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth.
- Mulch around bulbs to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in a sunny, well-drained site for best flowering performance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
- Refrain from disturbing bulbs during flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Buttermint Spider Lily questions
What zones can Buttermint Spider Lily grow in?
Buttermint Spider Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Buttermint Spider Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Buttermint Spider Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Buttermint Spider Lily bloom?
Buttermint Spider Lily typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Buttermint Spider Lily need full sun?
Buttermint Spider Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Buttermint Spider Lily drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Buttermint Spider Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Lycoris to compare

Lycoris x rosea Glenn Dale Gem
Lycoris x rosea 'Glenn Dale Gem'

Surprise Lily Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea 'Cherry Crush'

Pink Lycoris
Lycoris x rosea

Pink Panther Surprise Lily
Lycoris x rosea 'Pink Panther'

Surprise Lily
Lycoris squamigera

Lycoris x traubiata Buttermint
Lycoris x traubiata 'Buttermint'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Buttermint Spider Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.


